Human, nature and balance: a comparative analysis of eco-critical parallels in Gun Island by Amitav Ghosh and Island by Aldous Huxley

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to examine and compare the literary theory of ecocriticism between the two novels Gun Island by Amitav Ghosh and Island by Aldous Huxley. It explores the intricate relationship between human life and the natural world through the lens of ecocriticism. By analyzing the environmental consciousness in these two novels Gun Island and Island, the study aims to unveil how these authors conceptualize the connection between human and nature amidst environmental crisis and utopian ideals. There are different themes such as ecological challenges, human resilience, spirituality versus science, environmental ethics and responsibility are used to compare these two novels and their approaches. The purpose of this comparative research is to emphasize the various approaches that these authors took in addressing the pressing environmental challenges of their respective eras and to provide alternative remedies that were inspired by the authors' pieces of literature. This research contributes to the broader discourse in ecocriticism and environmental humanities where it gives insights into the role of literature in shaping human perceptions and interactions with the environment to promote sustainability and ecological balance. The purpose of choosing these two novels is to show the destructive influence of dystopian society on human life and at the same time to glorify the blessings of a utopian society. However, this paper leaves scope for further studies where it can include the cross-cultural ecocritical comparison along with interdisciplinary approaches. This work is still able to promote human awareness through its narrative and approach.